Meet Our Staff

 

 

Heather Premo (Owner & Operations Director)

I have worked with children in child care since 1995.  Throughout my years I have been able to experience and respect all of the different positions in Early Childhood Education.  I attended San Jose State University on a softball scholarship, and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education.  It was during this time that my love for children further blossomed.

As a director since January 2002, of two large franchised schools and now Milestones; I have experienced all of the ins and outs of what the standards in childcare should be.  Throughout my years as a director, my admiration for the field of Early Childhood Education has continued to grow.  We pride ourselves on creating a positive school atmosphere with a “Home away from home” feel.  As a mother of two beautiful children I understand the importance of families having a nurturing environment for their little ones.  We are truly blessed to be an important part of the growth and development of each individual child at our school.  We look forward to your family being a part of our family.  Established Milestones: October 15, 2012

Cody Premo (Owner & Director)

I have dedicated my professional career to helping children and teenagers.  In 2005, I graduated from The University of Nevada, Reno with a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice.  My experience comes from working in juvenile detention, teaching Kindergarten and clinical case management.  Throughout the years I have worked with children from 2 to 18 years old.

I have four years of experience as a Kindergarten teacher, specializing in children diagnosed with behavioral disorders.  I then worked as a clinical case manager for two years for an agency that provided therapeutic outpatient services.   I believe the combination of experience between Heather and I are the foundation of Milestones Learning Center.  Established Milestones: October 15, 2012

Ms. Shanette (Infant-Toddler Director)

I have worked in child care since 2002 as a Teacher, Infant/Toddler Director, and Preschool Owner.  I am married, and have three children; two boys and one girl.

I joined the Milestones team in 2013 as a teacher.  During my first nine years at Milestones I was and infant, pre toddler, toddler and preschool teacher.  In 2022, I was honored to become the Infant/Toddler Director.  Working with children is my passion. To see their smiling faces when they accomplish something new is enough to remind me why I love working in this field.  I have loved my years of being part of the Milestones family, and my role within the school.  I enjoy getting to know our new families, while supporting our current ones; and our teachers.                                       Joined the Milestones Team: August 2013.

Ms. Nikki (Preschool Director)

I started my career in the early childhood field in 1998 working with infants.  This is when I fell in love with the field and decided to pursue my degree in Early Child Education.    I have a dual Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and Human Development and Family Studies.  Throughout my years as a teacher I worked with children ages 6 weeks to 5 years.  After 15 years in the classroom I decided it was time for a change, which lead me to Milestones as their Education Director.  This allows me to continue to be active with the kids, as well as to work alongside teachers to develop a quality curriculum for our program.  I believe all children have the right to learn in a hands-on, loving and safe environment.

I love to hang out with my beautifully energetic daughter.  I also love adventure of any kind.  I enjoy traveling, really to anywhere I have never been.  I also enjoy running, hiking, being outdoors, reading and spending time with family and friends.  I look forward to getting to know each of our families and to being a part your child’s beginning education.  Joined the Milestones Team: September 2012.

Ms. Tarynn (Classroom Support Director)

I am a Reno, Nevada native and chose to settle here for good after attending Arizona State University to study Anthropology.  I love being surrounded by family and enjoying all this beautiful area has to offer, from outdoor adventures to our vibrant community itself.

I first found a home here at Milestones in 2016 as an assistant teacher for one of our preschool classes, and quickly fell in love with Early Childhood Education.  Since then, I have spent seven years learning and growing right alongside the kids as a teacher in our 3-5 year-old classrooms.  Over time here, I learned that the relationships we build with the kids in our care are truly the most important piece of the preschool puzzle.  The things I prided myself on as a teacher – strong relationships, consistency, and communication – are what I now hope to mentor new teachers in as the Classroom Support Director.  Getting to be hands-on in the classroom and support all of our great teachers in the making as they grow their skills has truly given me the best of both worlds.  Joined the Milestones Team: June 2016.

Ms. Elaine (Assistant Director)

I was born and raised in Tipperary, Ireland. I came to the United States in 2014 as an Au Pair.  I met my husband when I came to America and since then we have had three children; two of which are twins.  My children are the center of my world! 

I received my Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education while in Ireland, and am currently working on my Bachelor’s degree in Science Business Administration and Human Resources.  I began working with Milestones in 2017 as an infant teacher, and in 2020 became an Assistant Director.  I love being part of Milestones’ family and bringing smiles to each family every day.     Joined the Milestones Team: July 2017.

Ms. Mona (Administrative Assistant)

I grew up in Hawthorne, Nevada.  I enjoy anything outdoors such as, camping with my family, spending time with my sons, and hiking with our dog.  I have worked with children of all ages since 2008.  Previously I have been a teacher for preschoolers, toddlers, infants, and now a lead pretoddler teacher.  Working with children is my passion and it is always nice to meet other families and teachers.  Fun Fact:  In the future I hope to travel all around the world with my husband and boys.  Joined the Milestones Team: May 2021.

 

 

Ms. Vickie (Lead Teacher: Goslings” 6 months to 12 months)

I was born and raised in Reno, Nevada.  I am a mother of six beautiful children!!!  Outside of work I enjoy fishing, hiking, rock collecting, crafting, and of course keeping up with my children’s sports and activities.

Now that my children are older, I desired going back to work in early childhood education because children have always been a passion of mine.  There is nothing better than seeing children laugh and grow within your care.  Being a parent myself I understand the importance of understanding the needs of the parent as well as the children.  I look forward to the relationships that will grow during my time with Milestones.

Ms. Vanessa (Lead Teacher: “Chickadees” 12 months to 18 months)

I was born and raised in Sacramento, CA, and attended Sierra College in Rocklin.  In my personal time I enjoy relaxing by reading and creating drawings.  

I began working with children as a nanny of three children, one of which had special needs.  It was then that I realized how much I love working with children and decided that I wanted to work in the field of Early Childhood Education.  I absolutely adore being a pre toddler teacher and building relationships with each individual one.  I look forward to seeing the growth that each child will have in our classroom.

Ms. Olivia (Lead Teacher: “Starlings” 18 months to 24 months)

I was born in Reno, Nevada but grew up in Texas.  I enjoy reading, going to the gym, and staying busy with my two daughters.  I have worked with children since 2021, ranging in ages infants through eighteen months.  I have always enjoyed working with young children and the fun memories it creates.  I am currently attending college working towards a degree in Crime Scene Investigation.

Ms. Jackie (Lead Teacher: “Pewees” 2 years to 2.5 years)

I was born and raised in Monassas, Virginia.  I enjoy spending time with my son, playing piano, singing, reading, and being creative through painting and drawing.  I have worked with a variety of age groups through the years, however my favorite is toddlers. Working with children at this age fun because they get so excited about learning.  I love when they can show, and tell their parents what we did each day.

Ms. Lizzy (Lead Teacher: “Finches”2.5 years to 3 years)

I was born and raised in Reno, Nevada.  I tend to be a home body, but I am also very artistic and enjoy drawing, and doing fun make-up tutorials.  I began working in the field of Early Childhood Education in 2020, primarily with pre toddlers and toddlers. I love working with young children and teaching them through circle time, and hands-on activities. Children are a joy, and being a part of their day is very rewarding.

Ms. Madi M. (Lead Teacher: “Pipits” 3 years to 3.5 years)

I was born and raised in Reno/Sparks, Nevada.  I am a very family oriented person, when I am not with family I enjoy spending time with my animals, and reading.  My future plans are to become an elementary school teacher, focusing on the lower age groups.  Working with children is a joy and allows you to build close relationships. It is important to be a strong role model for them.

Ms. Laura (Lead Teacher: “Sparrows” 3.5 years to 3 years)

I was born in Placentia, California, however, I grew up in the Reno area.  I enjoy being outside hiking, and when indoors reading as often as possible.   I have worked in the field of Early Childhood Education for many years, primarily with toddlers.  Working with children is a very enjoyable career, every day is a different experience for them and I get to be a part of that.

Ms. Catherine (Lead Teacher: “Wrens”4 years to 4.5 years)

I grew up in Southern California and moved to Reno in 2019. I love skiing, reading, playing the guitar and hiking. I have a bachelor’s degree is in Psychology from Cal Poly Panoma. I previously worked at Milestones from 2019 to 2023 as the lead teacher in the Starlings classroom.  I left for a short period of time to experience a new place of employment, working with children who have behavioral and mental health disabilities.  I am excited to be back at Milestones as a Pre K TA.

Ms. Morgan (Lead Teacher: “Owls” 4 years to 4.5 years)

I was born in Southern California but was raised in Nevada City, California. My hobbies include running, yoga, hiking, cooking, baking, reading, traveling and spending time with my family and big cat.

I have been working with children for eight years, as a camp counselor, nanny, Au Pair, preschool teacher and behavioral technician with children ages ranging from six weeks to sixteen years old. During my time as an Au Pair I lived in both Australia and Italy. When I originally went to school, I focused on Sociology however I now plan to complete my Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education. Through my experience I have also worked with children diagnosed with Autism and behavioral disorders where I received specialized training.  I look forward to building a strong relationship with the Milestones families.

Ms. Chiara (Lead Teacher: “Puffins” 4.5 years to 5 years)

I was born and raised in Southern California.  I moved to Reno to attend the University of Reno Nevada, which I completed my Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work.  I enjoy reading books, and spending time outside by going on walks and hikes.

I have worked with children on various levels from Early Childhood Education to High School age.  I am very passionate about working with children and making sure that they have a positive experience while in the learning environment.  I strive to be a consistent adult in children’s lives, while helping them learn new skills and discover what they are capable of.

Ms. Katlyn (Lead Teacher: “Falcons”4.5 years to 5 years)

I grew up in Brooksville Florida and moved to Reno in 2012. I love drawing, painting, photography; and spending time snuggling with my son and daughter.

My experience with children began in 2015.  I plan on continuing my education at UNR to become a teacher. I previously worked at a preschool with children aged four and five years old, for two years. I have also coached gymnastics with five-to-thirteen-year old’s as well.

I love being at Milestones because we have a fun-loving staff that all enjoys what we do.

Ms. Kendal (Lead Youth Program / Teacher Aide)

I grew up on a ranch near Loyalton, California in Sierra Valley.  Throughout my childhood we bred and raised cattle, horses on goats.  I enjoy spending time with my family, camping, backpacking, kayaking, swimming, and snow shoeing.  I very much enjoy attending country music concerts and festivals.

I began working with children in 2012, my experience ranges from children ages infants to elementary age.  My education courses have always been focused on child development and health and safety.  I enjoy working with children and plan to continue doing so in the future.  I have had a wonderful time working at Milestones because the staff is friendly, and the programs are organized and fun.

 

Ms. Lucy (Assistant Teacher: “Buntings”6 weeks to 6 months)

I was born in San Fernando, California, however, I grew up in Reno, Nevada. I enjoy spending time outside on walks and hikes, and being with my family.  Previously to working at Milestones, most of my experience came from helping take care of my nieces and nephew, and working with a youth program during the school year.  I enjoy working with kids because of their different personalities, and getting to know each one individually.

Ms. Ashley (Assistant Teacher: “Chickadees” 12 months to 18 months)

I was born and raised in Reno, Nevada.  In my personal time I enjoy hanging out with my friends, reading scary books, watching various television series, and catching up on sleep.  Previous to working at Milestones, my primary age group experience was with Kindergarten and First Graders.  However, being with my younger siblings made me realize how much I love kids, and I began at Milestones as a teacher aide in the infants and pre toddler classrooms.  Now I have a home with our Chickadees, and get to be a constant part of their daily growth.

Ms. Kyra (Assistant Teacher: “Chickadees” 12 months to 18 months)

I was born and raised in San Bernardino, California. In my personal time I love to be outside in nature, one of my favorite things is to hike.  My primary experience with children has been through babysitting and being a personal nanny.  I have a strong passion to be a teacher in the future, seeing children grow is a wonderful thing.

Ms. Kailei (Assistant Teacher: “Pewees”2 years to 2.5 years)

I was born and raised in Palmdale, California.  I enjoy spending time outside, fishing, taking my dogs on walks, and spending quality time with my daughter.  I spent an extended amount of time at home with my daughter before beginning to work in the field of Early Childhood Education in 2023. My primary focus has been with children aged 1 years to 2 years old because I enjoy watching them learn new things at this age, the building blocks for their future learning.

Ms. Bella (Assistant Teacher: “Finches”2.5 years to 3 years)

I was born and raised in Tri-Cities, Washington. My personal time is primarily spent with my friends and family, when I am not with them then I enjoy reading. My primary experience has been with two and three year old’s, previous to that I also tutored children in the elementary school setting.  Working with young children has always been a passion of mine, I love being a part of their growth.

Ms. Frida (Assistant Teacher: “Finches”2.5 years to 3 years)

I was born and raised in Reedley, California. I enjoy swimming, going on walks, relaxing at parks, and attending church.  I have worked with children of many ages while babysitting throughout the years, along with working as a toddler teacher previously.  Being a teacher is such an important role, but often times I think that we too learn a lot from them.

Ms. Madison (Assistant Teacher: “Pipits” 3 years to 3.5 years)

I was born and raised in Carson City, Nevada, but primarily grew up in Dayton. During the nice weather I am a very outdoorsy person that enjoys fishing, hiking, camping, but in winter I tend to be a home body.  I am extremely passionate about children and have always been the babysitter in my large family.  I have worked with all age groups while working in the field of Early Childhood Education, but truly enjoy the preschool age and all of the knowledge that begins to connect in their minds.

Ms. Kari (Assistant Teacher: “Wrens”4 years to 4.5 years)

I was born in South Lake Tahoe, CA.  In my personal time, I enjoy the outdoors by going on walks and hikes with my dogs, I also enjoy spending time at the gym.  I previously worked at Milestones from 2020 to 2023 as an assistant teacher in the Starlings classroom.  I left for a short period of time to experience a new place of living, in San Antonio, TX.  After missing family and friends, I came back and I am excited to be a part of the Pre Kindergarten program, helping each of the children explore, learn and grow each day.

Ms. Veronica (Assistant Teacher: “Owls”4 years to 4.5 years)

I was born in Merced, California, however grew up in Dos Palos, CA.  In my personal time I enjoy spending time outside with my daughter, playing board games, and reading.  Previously to working at Milestones, I spent many years working with elementary school aged children.  I moved to Reno in 2024 and began working with the Pre Toddlers at Milestones, eventually moving up to Pre K.  Working with children is very rewarding, nothing is better than when the knowledge begins to click in their minds.

Ms. Jordan (Assistant Teacher: “Falcons”4.5 years to 5 years)

I was born and raised in Reno, NV.  I enjoy reading, cooking, hanging out with my siblings, and spending quality time with my daughter.  I have worked with preschool and pre kindergarten aged children since 2020.  In the future, I would like to become an elementary school teacher. Having a positive impact on the children in our classroom is extremely rewarding and brings a smile to my face.  

Mr. Ro (Assistant Youth Program / Teacher Aide)

I was born and raised in Los Angeles, CA.  I enjoy spending time with my family, wife and son; in my quiet time I am a gamer.  Previous to Milestones, I have worked with children for a few year as a youth minister.  Children have such a great outlook on things in life, I appreciate their perspective.  

Mr. Nathen (Assistant Youth Program / Teacher Aide)

I was born and raised in Reno, Nevada. I am an extremely active outdoors person that enjoys fishing, rock climbing, and hanging out with friends.  Previously to working at Milestones, I had a job that interacted a lot with children which made me realize that I wanted to learn more about the field of education, and teaching children. I enjoy working with the children and being someone that they can look up to as a mentor.

 

Ms. Kaila (Teacher Aide)

I was born and raised in Reno, Nevada.  I currently attend the University of Nevada Reno, working towards a degree in Public Health.  In my personal time I enjoy playing volleyball, cooking, going to Tahoe, hanging out with my siblings and friends, and watching basketball and football. I began working with children as a volunteer at my church, ages infants through four years old.  I am enjoying my time at Milestones learning to work with all ages, although I have found that I extra enjoy the two year old age group.

Ms. Natalie (Teacher Aide)

I was born and raised in Richmond, California. In my personal time I enjoy baking cookies & cakes, going on walks and hikes, and spending time with my two dogs and three cats.  Previous to working at Milestones I was with a Montessori program in California, working with two and three year old’s. I enjoy being with children each day because of the teaching aspect, helping them grow each day is rewarding.

Ms. Mandisa (Teacher Aide)

I was born and raised in Reno, Nevada.  I enjoy hiking and being outside, I collect flowers, and appreciate spending time with my family.  Previous to working at Milestones, I have worked with elementary school age children as a camp counselor, and as a preschool teacher with three and four year olds. Nothing beats working with children and the smiles that you can bring to their faces.

 

Ms. Miranda (Kitchen Attendant)

I was born in Reno, Nevada however, raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.  In my spare time I enjoy being outside planting and gardening.  I began working in early childhood education because I have always wanted to be a teacher; what an amazing career!  For the first couple of years at Milestones, I was a teacher aide; then an assistant preschool teacher.  Now as the kitchen attendant, I am able to interact with children all throughout the school and be a part of so many amazing children.

 

 

*All employees at Milestones have been cleared through the Washoe County Sheriff Department and Washoe County Social Services, regarding a background check.

Within 90 days, all employees receive training and certificates in: CPR/First Aide, Child Abuse & Neglect Recognition, SIDS, Communicable Disease, 3 hours of Child Development and a Child Nutrition Obesity course, Prevention of Baby Shaken Syndrome, Building and Physical Premises Safety, Emergency Preparedness, Medication Administration and Food Allergies, and Transportation Safety.

In addition to this, teachers at Milestones must complete 24 hours of Early Childhood Education each licensing year.